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Neuroendocrine and cardiovascular effects of MDE in healthy volunteers
E Gouzoulis1, U von Bardeleben, A Rupp
1Department of Psychiatry, University of Freiburg, Federal Republic of Germany.
Abstract:
The drug 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine ([MDE] also known as "Eve") is a less toxic analog of 3,4-methylenedioxymethamphetamine (also known as "Ecstasy") with similar psychotropic effects in humans. In a double-blind placebo-controlled, cross-over study we administered 140 mg of MDE or placebo orally to eight healthy male volunteers at 1:30 P.M. Serum cortisol, prolactin (PRL), and growth hormone (GH) levels, as well as blood pressure, and heart rate were measured every 20 minutes until 5:00 P.M. Administration of MDE was followed by statistically significant long-lasting increases of serum cortisol, PRL, systolic blood pressure, and heart rate, and by a trend toward blunting of GH secretion. The neuroendocrine and cardiovascular effects of MDE are comparable to those of other phenethylamines with the exception of the effect on GH secretion.
Insights
3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDE) significantly increases cortisol, prolactin, and heart rate in healthy males, with effects comparable to other phenethylamines but a unique impact on growth hormone secretion.
Area of Science:
- Neuropharmacology
- Endocrinology
- Cardiovascular Physiology
Background:
- 3,4-methylenedioxyethamphetamine (MDE), known as "Eve", is a less toxic analog of MDMA ("Ecstasy").
- MDE shares similar psychotropic effects with MDMA in humans.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the neuroendocrine and cardiovascular effects of MDE in healthy male volunteers.
- To compare the effects of MDE with placebo in a controlled study.
Main Methods:
- A double-blind, placebo-controlled, cross-over study design.
- Oral administration of 140 mg MDE or placebo to eight healthy male volunteers.
- Measurement of serum cortisol, prolactin (PRL), growth hormone (GH), blood pressure, and heart rate at regular intervals.
Main Results:
- MDE administration led to significant, long-lasting increases in serum cortisol, PRL, systolic blood pressure, and heart rate.
- A trend toward blunted GH secretion was observed following MDE administration.
- The neuroendocrine and cardiovascular effects of MDE were comparable to other phenethylamines, except for GH secretion.
Conclusions:
- MDE elicits significant neuroendocrine and cardiovascular responses in humans.
- MDE's effect on GH secretion differs from other phenethylamines, warranting further investigation.